Nissan’s Autonomous Drive technology is demonstrated in a LEAF EV at CEATEC 2013, where it took top honors.

Nissan’s Autonomous Drive technology took the top prize in CEATEC Japan 2013’s Innovation Awards, as judged by a panel of independent US journalists working in the fields of IT and consumer electronics.

The press release from Nissan said the win of the top honor, known as the Grand Prix, marked a first for the automaker. Here’s how the event works, according to Nissan:

The award honors the best among the technologies, products and services exhibited at CEATEC JAPAN 2013. The jury of journalists assesses the exhibits at CEATEC in a number of categories to determine the best by focusing on their potential impact on the U.S. market, meeting new consumer needs, functionality, innovation and if the technology, product or service exhibited offers a unique solution to new needs. It is the first time for Nissan to have won the award and the first time for an automaker to be given this accolade.

In addition to the Grand Prix award, the Autonomous Drive technology also won the Smart Mobility, Special Award category.

The panel of judges attached a citation to the Grand Prix award given to Nissan for its Autonomous Drive tech that read, “Nissan’s Autonomous Drive technology will greatly benefit future society by reducing traffic accidents and fatalities, preventing traffic congestion, and contributing to a reduction in environmental issues through improved fuel economy.”